Pasco County Theft Crime Defense Lawyer

Theft offenses in Florida can range from minor infractions to serious felonies, but all come with the potential for life-changing consequences, including loss of liberty, loss of employment, and loss of reputation. If you or a loved one is accused of theft, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your rights and your future. Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., based in New Port Richey, provides experienced and strategic legal representation for individuals charged with theft-related crimes in the Tampa Bay area. Contact our office today to review your situation with a skilled and experienced Pasco County theft crime defense lawyer.

What Constitutes Theft Under Florida Law?

Florida law defines theft as the unlawful taking or use of another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently or temporarily. This broad definition encompasses a wide variety of offenses, including:

Petty Theft: Involving stolen property valued at less than $750, typically charged as a misdemeanor.
Grand Theft: When the stolen property is valued at $750 or more, this is usually charged as a felony.
Shoplifting: Also known as retail theft, this offense involves taking items from a retail establishment without paying.
Burglary and Robbery: These are separate, more severe crimes that involve theft combined with unlawful entry or the use of force or threats.
Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or property entrusted to you by an employer or another party.
Fraud: Using deceit or misrepresentation to unlawfully obtain property, money, or services.

Generally speaking, the penalties for theft crimes in Florida depend on the value of the property, the circumstances of the case, and whether the accused has prior convictions.

Penalties for Theft Offenses in Florida

Theft crimes carry varying degrees of penalties, which may include fines, probation, community service, restitution to the victim, and jail or prison time. The severity of the charge often depends on the following factors:

Value of Property: For example, theft of items valued at $100 or less is considered second-degree petty theft, a misdemeanor, while theft exceeding $100,000 is classified as first-degree grand theft, a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Type of Property: Stealing certain items, such as firearms, vehicles, or emergency medical equipment, can result in enhanced penalties.
Criminal History: Repeat offenders may face harsher sentences, including mandatory minimum prison terms.

If convicted, you may also face collateral consequences such as difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and damage to your reputation.

Defending Against Theft Charges in Pasco County

At Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., we understand that every prosecution for theft has its own unique facts and circumstances. Our team carefully evaluates the details surrounding your arrest to build a strong defense strategy. Common defenses in theft cases include proving you lacked the required intent to deprive the owner of their property permanently or demonstrating that you were not the person who committed the alleged theft. Sometimes theft charges grow out of a dispute over ownership, and showing that the property in question was yours or you had a legitimate claim to it can defeat the charges. As with any criminal case, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and ability to prove the elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt can be an effective strategy.

Our firm will work tirelessly to negotiate with prosecutors, seek a reduction or dismissal of charges, or fight for your acquittal in court.

Why Choose Athanaselos & Associates, P.A.?

John Athanaselos and the team at Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., bring extensive legal experience and a deep understanding of Florida criminal law to every case. We are committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive advocacy for clients facing theft charges. With a focus on protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of criminal allegations, our firm is a trusted resource for those navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system in Pasco County.

Contact a Pasco County Theft Crime Lawyer Today

If you are charged with a theft offense in Pasco County, don’t wait to secure skilled legal representation. Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., is here to help you understand your options, build a robust defense, and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Call us today at 727-810-8405 for a free consultation. Let us stand by your side and fight for your rights when you need it most.